Specific Need for (3) AED's at Recovery Centers of Arkansas
Recovery Centers of Arkansas serves a diverse population of individuals undergoing substance use and co-occurring mental health treatment at (3) RCA Programs . Many of our clients have underlying health conditions, including cardiovascular risks associated with substance use history, withdrawal symptoms, and co-occurring medical conditions. Having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on-site is a critical safety measure to respond to potential cardiac emergencies, especially in a residential treatment setting where immediate access to emergency medical services may be delayed.
Population and Frequency
Across our various locations, we serve approximately 150–200 clients daily, including residential and outpatient participants. In addition, staff, visitors, and family members attending support meetings or counseling sessions add to the number of individuals present at any given time.
Past Instances Where an AED Could Have Been Beneficial
While there have not been any recent documented cardiac emergencies requiring an AED, past situations have included medical episodes related to withdrawal, respiratory distress, and other health complications where rapid intervention was necessary. Given the high-risk nature of our client population, the presence of an AED could be life-saving in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.
Installing an AED at our facility aligns with our commitment to client safety, emergency preparedness, and ensuring that staff can respond effectively to medical emergencies.
The AED will be strategically placed in a central and high-traffic area to ensure quick and easy access during an emergency. The specific location will depend on the layout of each facility, but priority will be given to placements near the main staff office or common area in residential facilities, in the lobby or central hallway of outpatient and administrative offices, and in dining and group meeting areas where large numbers of clients, visitors, and staff congregate.
To ensure accessibility, the AED will be placed in a wall-mounted cabinet with highly visible signage for quick identification. It will remain unlocked and will not be placed behind restricted or locked doors, ensuring it is available at all times. Staff will receive training on AED use, and all employees will be informed of its exact location. Routine checks and maintenance will be conducted regularly to ensure functionality, with designated staff monitoring its status and replacing expired pads or batteries as needed.
By implementing these measures, we can ensure that the AED is readily available in case of a medical emergency, minimizing response time and increasing the chances of a positive outcome.
